Manchester United have completed a blockbuster signing that could completely transform their midfield.
Man United have announced the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth £70 million.
The Red Devils will pay an initial £65m, with a further £5m available in add-ons, while Brighton have also secured a sell-on clause that could deliver another financial windfall in the future.
United first tried to sign Baleba last summer, but the Seagulls demanded more than £110m to even consider selling their prized midfielder.
After that move collapsed, the 22-year-old endured a frustrating 2025-26 campaign as he struggled to rediscover his best form.
Baleba started just 23 Premier League games and was substituted at half-time on several occasions as his season failed to reach the heights expected of him.
Despite his dip in form, INEOS remain convinced that Baleba possesses a sky-high ceiling and could develop into one of the most dominant midfielders in the English top flight.
The Cameroon international is the third midfield addition to United after Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer.
However, his Old Trafford debut could be delayed by an ankle ligament injury he suffered during pre-season.
Head coach Michael Carrick was desperate to add a powerful ball-winning presence to his midfield, particularly because Santos and Tielemans offer different qualities and are not renowned for relentless running.
Baleba will bring explosive athleticism and relentless tenacity to the middle of the park.
Expectations will be enormous from day one, but United must also remember that Baleba is still only 22 and will inevitably have difficult games as he adapts to the demands of Old Trafford.
Stats from Fotmob.com
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